DEAR DR. GOTT:
My daughter was diagnosed with autoimmune hemolytic anemia two years ago. Her doctors still don’t know how to treat it. They have tried everything but still have no answers. Now they are leaving it up to her to decide if she wants to have her spleen removed.
DEAR READER:
Your daughter has been diagnosed with a condition in which her own immune system is destroying red blood cells. It is a chronic disease.
Treatment generally starts with the use of corticosteroids such as prednisone. If the steroids fail to provide positive results, removal of the spleen is then considered . After that, if there is improvement, immunosuppressive medications are given in an attempt to stop the destruction. Blood transfusions are only given with extreme caution because of the risk of worsening the condition.
Unfortunately for most adults, the condition is chronic or relapsing. Infection or severe anemia can result from unsuccessful treatment options.
Your daughter needs to be under the care of a blood specialist (hematologist) who is familiar with this disorder. He or she can also review the condition, determine what is expected without further treatment and determine what possible treatment options she has left.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Blood — Donations and Disorders”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
About Dr. Gott